Funausagi Banata Observatory | A Cliff-Top Miyako Blue Panorama (Irabu, Miyako)

Funausagi Banata is an observatory on a seaside cliff in the north of Irabu Island. "Funausagi Banata" means "the cape that sees off the boats" in the local dialect, and is said to be where people once saw off family and friends leaving the island and prayed for their safety. Below spreads the clear deep-blue sea and the village of Sarahama, and on a clear day you can take in a grand Miyako Blue panorama. There was once a giant monument shaped after the grey-faced buzzard, the migratory bird that flies to Irabu Island, but due to deterioration from salt damage it was removed in August 2019, and now only the observatory itself remains. As the observatory is right in front of the car park, its appeal is that even the elderly and families with small children can easily drop by. About 15 minutes by car from the Irabu Ohashi Bridge, and about 45 minutes from Miyako Airport. You can enjoy the view in a stay of about 5 minutes, so it is recommended as a stop mid-drive.

Full article about this spot

Uoichiba Ichiwa: The 900-Yen Tub Sashimi Bowl by Sarahama Fishing Port on Irabu Island (Miyako)

A review of Uoichiba Ichiwa by Sarahama Fishing Port on Irabu Island near Miyakojima: a now-closed diner famous for a 900-yen tub-piled tuna and bonito sashimi bowl with four ways to eat it.

Map & Access

Open in Google Maps

Basic Information

Location (Island)Irabu Island
AddressAza Maezato-soe 588-1, Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa
Hours / Opening time24 hours (always open)
ClosedNone (always open)
FeeFree
ParkingAvailable, free, about 10 spaces
Contacthttps://miyako-guide.net/spots/spots-854/

Visiting tips & what to bring

As it is a cliff-top viewing spot, watch for falls near the railing on the sea side. There is almost no roof or tree shade, and in summer you get strong sun and glare, so having a hat, sunscreen and drinks gives peace of mind. The sea wind is strong and there are places where the facility is damaged by salt, so watch your footing. There are no toilets, shop or vending machines, so it is best to take care of needs at places such as Irabu Ohashi Umi-no-Eki or Sarahama Port. From the car park to the observatory is flat and very close, so easy-to-walk footwear is no problem.

For families with small children

The observatory is right in front of the car park, with no slopes or long stairs and flat ground, so it is an easy spot to drop by even with a pushchair or small children. The stay is also short at about 5 minutes, suited to a break on a drive. However, it is on a cliff and the sea side has height, so do not take your eyes off children near the railing. There are no toilets or shop, so prepare nappy changes and drinks in advance for peace of mind.

FAQ

Q.Is the big buzzard bird monument still there?

A.No. Due to deterioration from salt damage, it was removed in August 2019. Now only the observatory itself remains, and the spectacular sea view can still be enjoyed unchanged.

Q.Is there parking? Is there a charge?

A.There is free parking for about 10 cars. Admission to the observatory is also free. The observatory is right in front of the car park.

Q.Are there toilets or a shop?

A.There are no toilets, shop or vending machines. It is recommended to take care of things in advance at places such as Irabu Ohashi Umi-no-Eki or Sarahama Port.

Q.How much time should I allow?

A.As the observatory is right in front of the car park, about 5 minutes is enough to enjoy the view if you are just looking at the scenery. It is ideal for a stop mid-drive.

Q.What is the access and travel time?

A.Access by car is convenient. About 15 minutes from the Irabu Ohashi Bridge, and about 45 minutes from Miyako Airport. It is efficient to combine it with sights in the north of the island such as Makiyama Observatory and Yamatobu Oiwa Rock.